Virgin's Mobile TV unveiled for October launch
Virgin has unveiled its Mobile TV service, with the first broadcast set to commence from October 1st, coinciding with a huge advertising blitz, fronted by Pamela Anderson.
The service, which uses the DAB IP-based BT Movio platform, will offer four TV channels – BBC one, ITV1, Channel 4 and E4, along with 50 digital radio stations, ‘red-button’ interactivity and a seven-day electronic programme guide (EPG). Channel 4 will initially broadcast Channel 4 Short Cuts, a made-for-mobile TV channel, with a full Channel 4 simulcast to following at a later date. That’s not the only limitation – some films, sports broadcasts and US shows will also be removed from broadcast, while the BBC’s participation is on a 12-month trial basis.
Virgin is offering the service via the Lobster 700, its first Windows-based smartphone. If you sign up to a contract of £25 per month or more, you get the handset and the TV service for free for the life of your contract. You can also take the Lobster on pre-pay for £199, with the service free for 3 months, followed by a £5 a month charge.
Virgin Mobile
